Preparing Chaplains in a Denominational Seminary for Service Beyond the Walls of the Church

ABSTRACT

In the field of chaplaincy preparation, denominational seminaries offer many strengths and face some challenges. This paper examines some of the challenges at one particular seminary and offers suggestions for all seminaries seeking to develop a strong foundation of educational programs that build chaplaincy competency. These suggestions include equipping students with strong pastoral theology and critical thinking ability, developing pastoral skills, and fostering the ability to minister in an interfaith context.

KEYWORDS:

• Denomination
• seminary
• pastoral theology
• pastoral skills
• self-awareness
• chaplaincy

Disclosure Statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Notes

1 Raser, More Preachers and Better Preachers.

2 Cadge et al., “Training Healthcare Chaplains,” 19

3 Dykstra, Images of Pastoral Care, 123.

4 Hutt, Manifesto. In Buhuro, ed. Spiritual Care, 188.

5 Egan, On Living, 102.

6 Coates, et al., Truth Shall Set You Free. In Buhuro, 181.

7 Carl, Critical Role of Spirituality, 15. David Carl is one of 9 persons who participated in a discussion published by the Beryl Institute under the title The Critical Role of Spirituality in Patient Experience, Wolf, et al., eds.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Judith A. Schwanz

Dr. Judith A. Schwanz is the Emeritus Professor of Pastoral Care and Counseling at Nazarene Theological Seminary. Prior to retirement, she also served as Research Consultant for the Doctor of Ministry program at NTS and the director of the Wynkoop Center for Women in Ministry. Dr. Schwanz holds a Ph.D. and M.S. in Psychology from Portland State University, and an M.A. in Counseling from Western Evangelical Seminary. She is an ordained minister in the Church of the Nazarene. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Judi counseled NTS students in personal and professional matters. Judi has written Blessed Connections: Relationships that Sustain Vital Ministry, published by the Alban Institute. She has written numerous articles and speaks at retreats and workshops. Judi and her husband, Keith, are the parents of two married children and have six grandchildren.